KELOWNA - The Central Okanagan Economic Development Commission (COEDC) is requesting expressions of interest for new additions to the 2017 Advisory Board. A position on the Advisory Board of Directors offers individuals an opportunity to contribute to the strategic vision of the COEDC.

The Commission is funded by and accountable to the elected board of the Regional District of Central Okanagan representing the District of Lake Country, City of Kelowna, City of West Kelowna, Westbank First Nation, District of Peachland and Electoral Areas West and East.

The COEDC has a 40+ member advisory body including representatives of business associations, local government, and key industry leaders of Agriculture, Advanced Manufacturing, Professional Services, Construction & Development, Technology and Tourism. The Advisory Board serves as a conduit of community and business information; this information provides staff the ability to identify tactics, activities and partnerships in order to facilitate a healthy, dynamic and sustainable community economy.

Applicants will possess demonstrated executive level experience in a professional or commercial background, detailing any specialized areas of expertise (commerce, finance, law, marketing, health, manufacturing, technology, aerospace, agriculture, tourism, etc). Priority will be given to applicants in the agriculture and healthcare sectors, however, all applicants will be considered.

Applications close on Tuesday, Nov. 15, 2016.

Please submit your resume or a summary of your business background in addition to your contact information (mailing address, phone number and email) to info@investkelowna.com

All Expressions of Interest will be held in strict confidence. Expressions of Interest will be confirmed upon receipt.

Role of an Advisory Board Member:

Board members provide local knowledge, direction and expertise during the planning and implementation of the COEDC’s programs

Opportunity to contribute to the strategic vision of the COEDC

Non-fiduciary responsibilities

A board member should preferably reside within the Central Okanagan area and must be able to demonstrate:

An active community involvement and an appreciation of the diverse range of community values and sensitivities

Visionary capacity – ability to see the future need of the sector

Good working knowledge of a business environment

Must have email access capable of accepting large files

Sound understanding of the relationship between Economic Development Commission and external stakeholders, e.g. Government and related statutory authorities, Chambers of Commerce, local industry

Commitment of Time:

Ten board meetings for the year (1.5 hours per meeting starting at 7:30am, fourth Thursday of each month except July and August)

Occasional presentations in relationship to market intelligence in the sector you represent

Preparation for board meeting (<one hour per month)

Board members are appointed for a term of two years commencing Jan. 1, 2017 with the option of serving up to two terms.

OPINION Editor, This is a busy time of year, but I find it’s also a time of reflection, particularly as January marks the end of my two-year term as Chair and my 10 years serving on the Board of Interior